Stopmotion, directed by Robert Morgan, is a gripping psychological horror film that intricately blends live-action and stop-motion animation, offering a visually unique and effectively disturbing experience.

The film follows Ella Blake played by Aisling Franciosi (Game of Thrones), a talented but tormented stop-motion animator who becomes increasingly consumed by her work. After the death of her overbearing mother, played by Stella Gonet (Spencer. Holby City), Ella’s life spirals into chaos as she struggles to differentiate between reality and the grotesque world of her animated creations. The story delves deep into themes of artistic obsession, mental instability, and the destructive power of unresolved trauma.

Aisling Franciosi delivers a phenomenal performance as Ella, capturing the character’s descent into madness as she finds her creative voice with a compelling intensity. Her portrayal is both heartbreaking and terrifying, she made me empathise with her while also questioning her sanity from the get go. Franciosi’s previous roles in The Nightingale and The Fall have showcased her talent, and Stopmotion further solidifies her as a formidable presence in psychological horror. Caoilinn Springall (Citadel, Dr Who) as the little girl is also noteworthy as a bit of a scene stealer.

One of the film’s most notable aspects is its use of stop-motion animation. Robert Morgan, known for his short films like Bobby Yeah and his segment “D is for Deloused” in ABCs of Death 2, brings his expertise in stop-motion to this feature. The animation is as mesmerising as it is disturbing, perfectly complementing the film’s dark narrative. The visual style enhances the eerie atmosphere, creating a sense of unease as it explores the blurred lines of reality, delving into the psyche of an artist driven to the brink by her creative endeavours.

Stopmotion is a visually captivating and psychologically intense film that pushes the boundaries of horror. Robert Morgan’s feature directorial debut is a testament to the power of blending traditional filmmaking with innovative animation techniques.

The Blur-ray is slightly sparse when it comes to extras, but what we do get is well done and interesting. We get a well shot five minute set-break interview with Aisling Franciosi. A ten minute interview with Robert Morgan and a ten minute behind the scenes featurette. A commentary or two would have been nice, but alas…

For fans of psychological horror, and artistic storytelling, Stopmotion is a must-watch.

Out now from Acorn Media International.

Watch the trailer below:

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